The main difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is the severity of the offense and the potential penalties.
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes typically punishable by up to one year in county jail, fines, probation, or community service. Examples include petty theft, simple assault, first-offense DUI, and vandalism.
Felonies are more serious crimes that carry penalties of more than one year in state or federal prison. Examples include murder, robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking. Felony convictions can also result in loss of voting rights, inability to own firearms, and difficulty finding employment.
Some offenses are "wobblers" that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances and the defendant's criminal history.